The Chattanooga Audubon Society will hold the fifth annual Little Owl Music and Arts Festival, Saturday, May 14 from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. at their Audubon Acres sanctuary.
"Hear music, storytelling and local authors. Join us as we announce the winners of a student poster contest. View all entries in that contest at our clothesline art show. See craft exhibits and shop for unique items created by our arts and crafts vendors. Food vendors will have a variety of items available for purchase," officials said.
"Audubon Acres is Chattanooga’s oldest nature sanctuary and has a history of presenting cultural events for both school groups and the general public.
Chattanooga Audubon has included arts and crafts vendors, storytellers and local musicians in these events. It is a natural addition to include art and writing as other forms of creative expression. Join us for a fun filled day of music, art and nature.
"Beautiful and historic Audubon Acres is the perfect place for this festival. Not only is this East Brainerd sanctuary the homestead of Chattanooga Audubon’s founder Robert Sparks Walker, it reflects his values and creative genius as an author and editor. Authors and storytellers will join local musicians in presenting programs from the stage. The festival takes place at the height of the spring season. Migrating birds have already arrived. Spring wildflowers are in bloom.
"As our region continues on a path of development, small sanctuaries like Audubon Acres will grow in importance as wildlife habitat and recreational areas. Members of our community count on opportunities to hike our trails and view such species as Hermit Thrush, Brown Creeper, Cerulean Warblers and Wild Turkeys.
"Audubon Acres is a 130 acre Wildlife Sanctuary and is maintained so that visitors can enjoy and experience wildlife in its natural setting. There are over five miles of walking and hiking trails running on both sides of South Chickamauga Creek. On the trails, trees and plants are labeled with green signs as part of the Cherokee Arboretum. These signs include scientific, common, and Cherokee names, as well as uses that the Native peoples made of the plants. The Cherokee Arboretum assists in identifying trees, shrubs, and other woody plants for the benefit science, conservation and the visiting public. We are pleased to provide educational and recreational opportunities at all of our properties."